Sierra Leone’s state water company said on Sunday it would launch a nationwide campaign to recover unpaid bills from households and institutions, warning that persistent non-payment was undermining its finances and services.
The Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) said in a statement that mounting arrears had put pressure on cash flow and risked slowing investment in infrastructure.
Managing Director George Lamin Vandi said customers who failed to settle their debts would face disconnection and other enforcement measures in line with company policies. Letters had already been sent to individuals and organisations with overdue accounts, he said.
The announcement followed a recent SALWACO retreat titled “Revenue Generation for Sustainable Development,” where officials discussed debt collection and wider resource-mobilisation strategies.
The utility said it had instructed staff to step up revenue collection, marketing and stakeholder engagement to limit arrears and move the company toward greater financial independence.
Water supply in Sierra Leone, particularly in provincial towns, has long been hampered by aging pipes, limited treatment capacity and low bill recovery rates, according to sector analysts.
By Salim Kamara
